Derek's POV.
I parked my car at the front of the bar and walked in, the dim lighting and loud music a welcome escape from my thoughts. Marrok wasn't there yet, so I ordered a vodka from the bartender and took a shot. I needed it to drive away the thoughts that had been haunting me all day.
Just as I was about to take another shot, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned around to see Marrok, his piercing blue eyes scanning the room before focusing on me.
"What's up, bro?" he said, his deep voice a contrast to the loud music.
I shook my head, gesturing to the stool next to me. "Just trying to drown my sorrows," I replied, taking another shot.
Marrok raised an eyebrow, his expression curious. "What's going on, Derek? You know I'm here for you, no matter what."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. Where did I even start? The curse, Elena, Richard... it was all such a mess.